Xpeng (XPEV) Stock: Chinese EV Maker Goes All-In on Robotaxis After Tech Breakthrough

TLDR

• Xpeng plans to launch three robotaxi models in 2026 powered by self-developed Turing AI chips delivering 3,000 TOPS computing power
• The company unveiled its second-generation Iron humanoid robot with mass production planned by end of 2026
• Xpeng partnered with Alibaba’s AutoNavi and Amaps for robotaxi services starting with testing in Guangzhou next year
• CEO He Xiaopeng reversed his 2024 stance on robotaxis after faster-than-expected AI developments gave confidence in the technology
• The robotaxis will feature external displays on sun visors showing speed and trip information while using Level 4 autonomous driving capability

Xpeng dropped a bombshell at its AI Day event in Guangzhou on Wednesday. The Chinese electric vehicle maker announced plans to launch three robotaxi models in 2026.

This marks a dramatic shift for the company. Just 18 months ago, co-president Brian Gu said self-driving taxis wouldn’t become a real business for at least five years.

What changed? According to Gu, the technology moved faster than anyone expected.

XPeng Inc., XPEV

The new robotaxis will run on four of Xpeng’s self-developed Turing AI chips. The company claims this setup delivers 3,000 TOPS of computing power, the highest in-car total worldwide.

These chips power Xpeng’s second-generation vision-language-action model. This AI system processes visual cues to help vehicles drive themselves.

Xpeng struck a partnership with Alibaba to get the robotaxis on the road. The e-commerce giant’s AutoNavi mapping subsidiary and Amaps app will integrate the service.

Testing starts in Guangzhou and other Chinese cities next year. The rollout puts Xpeng in direct competition with Chinese players like Pony.ai, WeRide, and Baidu who already operate robotaxis in parts of China.

Two Types of Robotaxis

Xpeng’s approach splits into two categories. One targets commercial ride-sharing services for the public.

The other focuses on fully autonomous personal vehicles. These cars might only be shared among family members rather than strangers.

The robotaxis include external displays mounted on sun visors. These screens show speed, charging status, and trip information to people outside the vehicle.

Gu told CNBC that robotaxis will eventually become a global phenomenon. But he acknowledged regulation would slow international expansion.

During a group interview, Gu addressed his change of heart about the technology. He pointed to AI developments and computing power increases as the reason for his newfound confidence.

Humanoid Robots Enter the Picture

The company also unveiled its second-generation Iron humanoid robot. Mass production is scheduled to begin by the end of 2026.

CEO He Xiaopeng downplayed near-term household use. He said Chinese factory labor costs make industrial deployment impractical right now.

Instead, the robots will start as tour guides and sales assistants. Xpeng facilities will be the first to use them.

He made a surprising prediction about sales volume. He expects to sell more robots than cars over the next decade, though he couldn’t provide specific numbers.

The humanoid uses three Turing chips and a solid-state battery. Customization options will include body shape and hair style choices.

Xpeng has been developing flying cars and robots before Tesla entered those markets. But co-president Gu admitted Tesla has done a better job publicizing its plans.

The robotaxi vehicles will use Level 4 autonomous driving capability through Xpeng’s Canghai AI platform. The G9 SUV previously received public-road robotaxi testing approval in Guangzhou back in 2022.

Xpeng’s robotaxi based on the X9 multi-purpose vehicle appeared in footage shared on Weibo Tuesday. The video showed the vehicle performing tasks and communicating with pedestrians through its dual displays.

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